Heritage Malta, in collaboration with the Birgu Local Council, is bringing back the popular ‘Museums by Candlelight’ event on Saturday 10th May, in the heart of Birgu’s historic streets. Following the success of its previous event in October, which drew thousands of locals and tourists, this enchanting evening promises to once again offer a magical glimpse into Malta's rich cultural heritage.

This year, visitors can explore three of Malta’s most renowned historical sites – The Malta Maritime Museum, The Inquisitor’s Palace, and Fort St Angelo – all of which will be open for extended hours, from 7 PM until midnight. The reduced price of €3 grants access to all three sites (and free entry to Heritage Malta members), where the flickering glow of candles and torches will create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Beyond the lighting and ambience, this evening offers a unique opportunity to explore some of Malta’s finest exhibitions. At the Malta Maritime Museum, the exhibition ‘An Island at the Crossroads’ invites guests to journey through Malta's seafaring past. The exhibition traces how the islands have always played a central role in maritime navigation, offering a fresh perspective on Malta’s salt-scented centuries. This exhibition will close on May 31st for the second phase of the museum’s restoration, making this evening the perfect time to experience it.

Over at the Inquisitor’s Palace, visitors can explore ‘Fare Convito – The Archaeology of Banqueting in Hospitaller Malta’. This fascinating exhibition explores the role of food, art, and politics in the Baroque banqueting rituals of Malta, with artifacts uncovered through archaeological digs within the palace itself. Also at the Inquisitor’s Palace is ‘Threads of Faith – Liturgical Vestments of the Order of St John’, displaying the exquisite garments worn by clergy during the rule of the Order of St John, on display until July 2025.

Curious to see what it'll look like? Photographer Gabriel Treeby Coleiro captured some stunning shots of last year's edition - here are some of the sights you can expect this time round!

The event will once again offer a unique opportunity to experience these sites in an intimate and atmospheric setting, illuminated by candlelight and elevated with live entertainment throughout the evening.

Interested? Tickets will soon be online and they’ll be available at the door too. Don’t miss this chance to experience Birgu and its museums like never before!

Have you ever experienced a museum by candlelight?